Fleas and Ticks: Dangers, Signs, and Complete Prevention for Your Dog
Fleas and ticks are much more than just a nuisance. They compromise your dog's physical and mental health and are vectors of serious diseases, some of which are potentially fatal. Rigorous prevention is the only effective way to protect your companion.
1. Major Dangers: Fleas and Ticks
These parasites pose a threat to both canine and human health.
Fleas: Direct Consequences and Internal Parasites
- Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD) : Flea saliva is highly irritating, causing intense itching, redness, scabs and hair loss, even with a low infestation.
- Tapeworm transmission : Fleas are intermediate hosts of *Dipylidium caninum*. If a dog ingests a flea while grooming, it can contract this intestinal parasite.
- Anemia : A massive infestation (especially in puppies or seniors) can lead to significant blood loss, visible through **pale gums** and lethargy.
- Rapid Proliferation : A single female flea can lay up to 50 eggs per day, making an infestation uncontrollable within weeks.
Ticks: Vectors of Serious Diseases
Ticks transmit bacteria and parasites that attack joints, blood cells, and vital organs.
| Disease | Affected Pathogen | Key Symptoms to Monitor |
|---|---|---|
| Lyme disease (Borreliosis) | *Borrelia burgdorferi* bacterium | Intermittent lameness, fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, kidney complications. |
| Babesiosis | Protozoan (attacks red blood cells) | Hemolytic anemia, dark urine, high fever, jaundice (yellow mucous membranes). |
| Ehrlichiosis / Anaplasmosis | Bacteria (affect white blood cells) | Nosebleeds, joint pain, weight loss, fever. |
Common and Human Risks: Fleas and ticks are vectors of diseases transmissible to humans (zoonoses), including Lyme disease and certain rickettsial diseases. Prevention is therefore essential for the whole family.
Photo source: pixabay Erik_Karits
2. Quickly Identify the Infestation (Clinical and Visual Signs)
Rapid intervention requires identifying the clues left by each parasite.
Signs of Flea Infestation
- Excessive Scratching : The dog scratches intensely, often at the base of the tail, belly, and neck.
- Flea droppings : Small black specks in the fur. Confirmation test: if they turn reddish-brown on a damp handkerchief, it is digested blood.
- Skin lesions : Redness, scabs, or bald patches due to biting and compulsive licking.
- Nervousness : Sudden movements or irritability due to constant discomfort.
Signs of Tick Infestation
- Visible Ticks : Feel the dog, paying particular attention to protected areas: behind the ears, between the toes, under the collar, or in the groin. A fed tick is round and greyish.
- Symptoms of Illness : Lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, lameness, or swollen lymph nodes. These signs may appear several days after the bite.
- Anemia (Common Sign): Pale gums, abnormal weakness, or excessive panting in case of severe infestation (fleas or ticks).
3. Comprehensive Prevention Strategy
Prevention is the only truly effective approach and must be constant.
Use Regular Parasite Control Treatments
Pest control products are the first line of defense and should be used year-round.
- Oral Tablets : Systemic action and long-lasting protection (1 to 3 months). Convenient and water-resistant.
- Anti-parasite collars : Release active substances continuously. Offer long-lasting protection (up to 8 months).
- Pipettes (Topicals): Solutions applied to the skin (shoulder blades), effective quickly with protection lasting approximately one month.
- Sprays : Useful for occasional applications before going out into a risk area.
Controlling the Environment and Hygiene
- Household Cleaning : Vacuum carpets, sofas and resting areas frequently. Wash dog textiles at a high temperature (minimum 60°C).
- Habitat Treatment : Use fumigation devices or specific sprays (containing growth regulators) to target eggs and larvae.
- Garden Maintenance : Mow the lawn and avoid piles of leaves or damp areas to reduce tick hiding places.
- Grooming : Brush the dog regularly to remove dead hair and detect parasites early.
Photo source: pixabay alektas
Other Preventive Measures
- Post-Outing Inspection : Systematically feel the coat after each outing, especially during risk season (spring/autumn) or after a walk in tall grass.
- Vaccination : Consider vaccination against **Lyme Disease** if you live in a high-risk area.
- Nutrition : A quality diet strengthens the skin barrier. Some supplements (brewer's yeast) may have a slightly repellent effect.
Conclusion
Fleas and ticks pose a serious risk. The key to protection lies in a proactive approach combining regular treatments, thorough inspection, and strict environmental control . If you have any doubts, a persistent infestation, or symptoms of disease, consult your veterinarian immediately.